THERE were mixed emotions at the Club’s last meeting at Ecgwins Private Members Club on Thursday, November 27. Although sad to be leaving this venue after many years, members were delighted to be moving to Evesham’s Rowing Club with its delightful riverside location. Well known local athletes like Ron Tarry, John Doyle and Brian Ireland for example look forward to gathering at the site of their former glories.

The speaker this week was Jan Long who spoke about Gertrude Bell, whom she described as a heroine of the British Empire. She was a writer, traveller and archaeologist who became highly influential in British policy making in Jordan and Iraq in the late 1800s and early 1900s. She is described as one of the few Britons remembered by the Arabs with anything resembling affection.

In conversation, Pat Sparrow said she was a formidable woman, which had brought a twinkle to Ron Tarry’s eye, although whether he was thinking of Gertrude Bell or Jan Long is debatable! And Gordon Lashford’s recital of The Sat Nav by Pam Ayers resonated with many of the drivers present who have equally helpful Sat Navs in their passenger seats.

Our first meeting at Evesham’s Rowing Club will be on Thursday, December 4, starting at 10am. Access by car is off Abbey Road in Evesham or by foot through Abbey Park. Our speaker will be Lim Ho, talking about Three Gorges, Buddha and Panda. New members are welcomed.

CHRIS DONOUGH